Rear-End Collision? How a Specialized Car Accident Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights
A rear-end collision is one of the most common types of car accidents that occur. While they may seem minor, these accidents can cause significant injuries and damages that require legal help to navigate. If you’ve been rear-ended, understanding your options is key.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
There are a lot of factors that can cause a rear-end accident, but some are more common than others:
- Distracted Driving: A very common cause is distracted driving, such as someone being on their phone.
- Following Too Closely: Also, a common reason is following too close, making it very difficult to avoid an accident.
- Sudden Stops: Sometimes cars have to stop suddenly, and a driver doesn’t have time to react.
- Speeding: Like with all types of accidents, speeding can be a huge factor in rear-end accidents.
Why Even Minor Rear-End Collisions Need Attention
Even seemingly minor rear-end accidents can have lasting ramifications for you.
- Potential for Hidden Injuries: Whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries may not appear right away.
- Liability Disputes with Insurance Companies: Even if it may seem obvious, the at-fault party’s insurance company may try to deny or lower your claim.
How a Lawyer Specializing in Rear-End Accidents Helps
A lawyer who is experienced in this type of claim will be able to help you build the strongest case possible:
- Accurately Assessing Liability: They will determine who is at fault, which will impact the outcome of your claim.
- Gathering Evidence (Witness Statements, Police Reports): They will investigate the accident and build your case.
- Dealing with Tricky Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to deal with, and an attorney will be better equipped to handle their tactics.
Potential Damages and Settlement Amounts
Depending on the severity of the accident, your damages and potential settlement can vary greatly:
- Medical Expenses: This includes doctor visits, hospital bills, physical therapy, and all other costs associated with your medical care.
- Property Damage: This accounts for your vehicle and what it will cost to repair it.
- Lost Wages: If the accident prevented you from working, then you will be able to recoup those lost wages as part of your claim.
- Pain and Suffering: You are also entitled to payment for the physical and emotional trauma you had to experience during this time.
Challenges in Proving Fault
Even when it may seem obvious, here are some issues that may arise when determining liability:
- The role of “following too closely” laws: The laws surrounding the issue of following too closely are open to interpretation which can cause issues.
- The importance of witness statements: A reliable witness statement can often be the key to proving fault.
If you’ve been rear-ended, don’t wait. Get a free case consultation with our specialized lawyers.
Disclaimer: *The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.*